Property risks
Property condition — explained
EPC and the 2030 rules, council tax bands and premiums, and build-type issues like spray foam, RAAC, knotweed and damp.
In OfferCheck this is the Property Condition component (15% of the PropertyCheck IQ), sourced from GOV.UK EPC · VOA · build type.
Check a property’s risks →Questions buyers ask
Can I rent out a property with a low EPC?
Not F/G without an exemption; D/E is OK now but must reach C by Oct 2030.
What do landlords need to do for EPC C by 2030?
Plan upgrades now; cost is capped at £10,000 under the confirmed standard.
My EPC is old — does it still count?
Valid 10 years, but may not reflect recent works; a new assessment can change the band.
Is the EPC changing?
Yes — from Oct 2026 a four-metric system (fabric/heating/cost/smart) via the Home Energy Model.
Is a listed building exempt from an EPC?
Not under the reform — heritage homes generally need one when marketed/let/sold.
How much is council tax on this house?
State the band + the council's annual charge; flag any premium if relevant.
Can I challenge my council tax band?
Yes via the VOA if out of line with neighbours — but a challenge can move others' bands too.
Do I pay double council tax on a second home?
From April 2025 most English councils charge up to a 100% premium (200% total).
What's the council tax on an empty/refurb home?
Escalating empty-home premium: up to 200% at 1–5 yrs, rising to 400% at 10+ yrs.
Will an extension raise my band?
Not until you sell — improvements are picked up at the next sale.
Can I get a mortgage with spray foam in the roof?
Around a quarter of major lenders refuse; removal + a PCA-protocol certificate usually restores lending.
How much to remove spray foam?
Typically £2,000–£6,000 plus an inspection report; beware cold-caller scams (use the PCA register).
Should I buy a house with Japanese knotweed?
Often yes with a treatment plan + insurance-backed guarantee; treatment ~£1,500–£6,000 by infestation size.
Can I mortgage a concrete/prefab (PRC) house?
Only with a PRC repair certificate for designated-defective types; otherwise lenders narrow sharply.
What is RAAC and should I worry?
Lightweight concrete prone to sudden failure near end of life; needs a specialist check if suspected.
Pre-2000 house — is asbestos a problem?
Common in artex/tiles/soffits; usually manageable, rarely a deal-breaker, but survey it.
There's damp — how serious?
Identify the type (rising/penetrating/condensation) first; the fix and cost differ hugely.